Time to take heat seriously

  • Published
  • By Airman Alexis Grotz
  • 23d Wing Public Affairs
Moody Air Force Base, Ga. --  Having fun in the summer sun is one of the activities Airmen enjoy when the weather starts to warm up, but the heat is nothing to joke around with and should be taken seriously.

There are multiple ways to prepare before spending time outside during the summer months. Proper clothing, sunscreen and hydration are just a few ways to get ready for fun in the sun.

"The heat claims more lives annually than any other natural hazard in the world," said U.S. Air Force 1st Lt. Victoria Bobo, 23d Operations Support Squadron Weather Operations Flight commander.

There are many easy steps Airmen can take to keep safe from the summer heat.

"Reduce time in the sun, dress with care and cover your exposed skin," said Tech. Sgt. Curt Mitchell, 23d Wing Ground Safety Inspections and Training NCO in charge. "Take sunscreen seriously, apply [it] to your exposed skin, reapply every two hours and if [you are] by water, use waterproof sunscreen."

Some of the more serious heat related incidents include heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration.

"Airmen should understand and educate themselves on the signs of heat stroke, heat exhaustion and dehydration," said Mitchell. "Airmen should look at the forecast before going out and dress appropriately for the weather."

Some warning signs of heat related illnesses are: heavy sweating, cold or clammy skin, nausea or vomiting, fainting, rapid pulse, dry or sticky mouth, thirst, dizziness, or lightheadedness.

According to the Air Force Combat Climatology Center the summer heat climate data shows that for Moody Air Force Base and the local area, 19 of the 30 days in June will be hotter than 90 degrees. For July, 25 of the 31 days and for August, 24 of the 31 days will be hotter than 90 degrees.

So far Moody has had zero heat related incidents this year. Remember the heat is serious and can cause serious damage. In the event of an emergency, call 911.

Whether it is swimming, lying on the beach, playing a sport or cooking outside in the heat, remember to drink plenty of water, limit time exposed in the sun and use proper sunscreen.